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Guide to Washington

Kid-friendly museums

You want to explore a museum at a pace that actually works for your children.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Aviation Pavilion image 1
Aviation Pavilion image 2
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Big open hangar roof shelters numerous historical aircraft including a 747, Air Force One, and a B17. Covered outdoor spaces and interactive features like flight simulators and virtual reality experiences create an engaging atmosphere. Visitors explore inside real planes and enjoy live air traffic control views from a tower, making it a standout aviation museum.

The Aviation Pavilion offers interactive exhibits and educational activities that engage kids from toddlers to older children. The Blippi Airlines exhibit stands out as a favorite among little ones.

Aviation enthusiasts find an amazing collection of Boeing and Pacific Northwest history here. The museum features The Concord and Air Force One alongside interactive simulators and detailed exhibits.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly with fun interactive exhibits for little ones."

"The Aviation Pavilion is seriously interesting with real planes."

"I found the Aviation Pavilion museums to be world-class with amazing aircraft exhibits."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Aviation Pavilion is included with the Museum of Flight ticket.

2

Visitors can explore real aircraft, including Air Force One and the Dreamliner.

3

The Pavilion hosts special events on the first Thursday of each month.

02
U.S. Naval Undersea Museum image 1

Large, modern museum offers interactive submarine exhibits and detailed displays of torpedo mechanics. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits educational exploration with hands-on activities for all ages. Free admission encourages leisurely visits through well-laid-out naval history.

Interactive exhibits keep kids engaged with hands-on learning. Submarines and displays appeal to children aged 9 and above. Restrooms include child changing stations inside stalls for privacy.

Exhibits focus on the history of US Navy submarine forces with interactive displays including a hands-on submarine interior and real torpedoes. Admission is free, making it accessible for all ages, especially children 9 and up.

People are saying

"I learned so much about naval history and submarines here."

"The exhibits here are really interesting and informative."

"I found the Naval Undersea Museum really awesome and interesting."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

The museum hosts free events for kids, including Discovery Day focused on STEM learning.

3

Families can enjoy STEAM events for kids every Wednesday.

03
Suquamish Museum image 1

Museum showcases Suquamish Tribe's history through modern, well-curated exhibits in a beautifully maintained building with cultural outdoor spaces including totem poles and a playground for children.

Playground rich in culture offers kids a fun place to run around. Staff and tour guides provide patient, knowledgeable support while kids enjoy stories, coloring, puzzles, and games.

Small but beautifully curated, the museum offers modern, stylish exhibits that provide deep insight into the Suquamish Tribe's history and culture. It features ancient artifacts and modern stories that create an immersive educational experience.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the tribe's history and culture here."

"The museum's exhibits are beautiful and well done."

"The staff here is so helpful and friendly, making it really Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free admission during the Canoe event.

2

Children's activities like stories and puzzles are available at the museum.

3

The gift shop features tax-free local art and crafts.

04
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park image 1

Small museum offers interactive exhibitions and a theatre showing a 22-minute video. Atmosphere is relaxed with a free admission policy and educational activities for kids and adults. Exhibits include detailed art effects and replicas of period grocery stores and huts.

Many activities keep kids engaged, including booklets to fill out that earn badges and certificates. Rangers interact well with kids, making the experience educational and fun for all ages.

Spacious exhibits offer easy-to-read facts about the Klondike Gold Rush and the miners' journey. The museum is free to enter and includes a short film about Seattle during the gold rush.

People are saying

"You can visit the museum for free."

"This park offers a great overview of the Gold Rush with cool historical photos."

"It's really Kid Friendly with booklets to earn badges."

Good to know

1

Admission to the park is free for everyone.

2

The museum is educational and informative about Seattle's gold rush history.

3

The guided tour starts in 30 minutes, allowing time to explore.

05
Puget Sound Navy Museum image 1

Two-storey museum showcases interactive exhibits and hands-on children's areas with a mock galley and scavenger hunts. Clean, well-organized space presents naval artifacts by ship type and era. Atmosphere is safe and sensory friendly, welcoming families and learners of all ages.

Several hands-on exhibits keep kids engaged. A small mock-up galley offers a play kitchen for little ones. Interactive areas spark curiosity and make learning fun for children.

Admission is free and the museum is very clean and organized by ship type and age. Exhibits include a detailed look at life aboard an aircraft carrier with real equipment, all presented by knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

People are saying

"I learned about naval history and shipyard life at the free museum."

"I found the exhibits interesting, especially the detailed aircraft carrier information."

"You'll find the museums here are free and insightful."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

The museum has no parking available; consider public transport.

3

The museum is located right next to the ferry terminal.

06
Pacific Bonsai Museum image 1

Outdoor bonsai garden blends Japanese style with local plants along raked stone paths that create a zen garden feel. The atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, with beautifully maintained gardens and cleverly displayed bonsai specimens. Visitors find it quiet and visually stunning, offering a unique, tranquil experience.

Recent updates add interactive exhibits and kid-friendly sign boards that engage children well. Easy parking and gentle paths make it accessible for kids and elders alike.

Outdoor exhibits showcase about 40-50 bonsai trees with rotating displays. Entry is free with suggested donations, offering a very educational and nature-focused museum experience.

People are saying

"I found the bonsai trees at this museum to be breathtaking."

"I found the museum's outdoor setting to be peaceful and serene."

"It's so beautiful and peaceful here, a truly serene experience."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter, but donations are welcomed to help maintain it.

2

Kids and military personnel could enter for free.

3

Parking is available across the street from the museum.

07
White River Valley Museum image 1

Small museum offers interactive exhibits for children alongside well-curated local history covering Native, pioneer, and Japanese-American stories. Atmosphere is clean and immersive, with free admission encouraging easy access. Exhibits include a log cabin and train caboose, providing tangible glimpses into past lifestyles.

Interactive and touchable exhibits keep kids engaged. Play and immersive sections attract toddlers and young children. Parents can explore local history while kids enjoy hands-on activities.

Exhibits focus on local history with stories from Native, pioneer, and Japanese-American communities. Displays include a hops boom exhibit and a 1920s hat shop, offering immersive and well-lit insights into the area's past.

People are saying

"This local spot offers a fascinating look at regional heritage and history."

"It's really Kid Friendly with fun interactive displays."

"This museum offers fascinating glimpses into local history and its people."

Good to know

1

Admission is always free at the museum.

2

The museum features a new exhibit every quarter.

3

There are interactive exhibits designed for children.

08
Connections Museum image 1

Museum resembles a working telecom office from the early 1900s with dozens of functional electromechanical switches and vintage circuits. Sounds of whirring, humming, and clicking fill the space, creating an immersive atmosphere. Volunteers maintain and operate interactive exhibits that demonstrate historic telephone and communication technology.

Engaging presentations by a passionate guide make the museum educational and fun for kids. One adult per child helps with the hands-on exhibits about early telephone technology and telecom history.

Exhibits include early automated telephone switching systems that still operate, letting visitors place calls with a manual switchboard. Volunteers provide detailed tours explaining the history and technology across two levels, with all displays well maintained and functional.

People are saying

"The museum volunteers are so knowledgeable and passionate about everything."

"The historical sites here are fascinating, with knowledgeable guides."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the teacher's knowledge is captivating."

Good to know

1

The museum is only open on Sunday.

2

There is no admission charge, but donations are encouraged.

3

The museum offers a tour through six generations of telecom network connection systems.

09
The Museum of Flight - Charles Simonyi Space Gallery image 1

Space Shuttle mock-up dominates a gallery filled with interactive exhibits and historic artifacts from global space programs. The atmosphere balances educational depth with family-friendly activities, appealing to all ages. Visitors explore aviation history alongside immersive displays like a life-size Hubble telescope and hands-on trainers.

Interactive games and a space gallery keep kids engaged. Activities spark interest and inspire dreams like becoming a pilot.

Space Gallery features a mock-up of the Space Shuttle and offers interactive experiments and a flight simulator. Exhibits provide a detailed history of aerospace evolution and present space exploration as a global effort.

People are saying

"You can see a full-scale space shuttle at this museum."

"It's really Kid Friendly with interactive experiments and space activities."

"I loved the historical journey through aviation and space travel."

Good to know

1

Admission is $26 per person, providing access to all exhibits.

2

You need several hours to see everything in the museum.

3

The main entrance is accessible for wheelchair-bound visitors.

10
Exquisite Creatures Exhibit image 1

Exhibit presents humanely sourced specimens arranged with artistic vision that highlights nature's colors and textures. Spaces feel serene and calming, with quiet, darker areas that evoke a sense of being in the Amazon. Displays offer close-up views of unique creatures, fostering a peaceful connection with the natural world.

Interactive exhibits with buttons to light up colorful pieces engage kids well. Some art hangs about 4 feet high, which can make viewing tricky for younger children.

The museum features the Exquisite Creatures Exhibit, a stunning and unique display that captivates all ages. Natural specimen exhibits offer a feast for the eyes and inspire awe for art and nature.

People are saying

"The museums here are stunning displays of nature's beauty."

"The Galleries here are an amazing marriage of art and biology."

"This exhibit is gorgeous and amazing for kids!"

Good to know

1

Parking in this area is limited; consider taking the light rail.

2

Photos and videos are allowed throughout the exhibit.

3

The exhibit is very accessible for all visitors.

11
Museum of Pop Culture image 1

Building showcases Frank Gehry architecture with a guitar tower as a standout feature. Inside offers interactive music experiences including jam-session rooms and a sound lab for trying instruments. Exhibits cover music history and pop culture with eclectic displays and immersive fantasy elements.

Kids enjoy the interactive music rooms where they can play instruments. The live hip-hop performances in Sky Church offer a kid-friendly atmosphere with impressive talent.

Focuses on music, movies, and pop culture with engaging exhibits. Offers a modern storytelling experience that draws strong reactions and repeated visits.

People are saying

"You can explore pop culture and play games; it's a really fun experience."

"It's so cool to see actual props from sci-fi and fantasy films."

"I found the Museum of Pop Culture to be a really awesome experience."

Good to know

1

Tickets should be purchased in advance to avoid long wait times.

2

Admission is $30 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors.

3

Parking is available nearby but can fill up quickly during events.

12
USS Turner Joy image 1
History museum

A historic naval ship with interactive exhibits and audio materials creates an immersive experience. The interior feels like a self-contained universe with many ladders and stairs to explore. Visitors encounter a quiet atmosphere and can enjoy views of the sea while learning about military history.

Kids enjoy climbing the ship's ladders and exploring the big guns. The gift shop offers toys and clothes for children, and talks by knowledgeable guides engage both kids and adults.

The museum offers a floating slice of history with extensive access to the ship and hands-on exhibits. Detailed signs and interactive programs provide a vivid experience of life aboard during the Vietnam War.

People are saying

"You can explore this historical ship and imagine the sailors' lives."

"It's really fun for kids to explore and climb around the ship."

"This museum is a striking tribute to bravery."

Good to know

1

Admission is $18 for adults, with free entry for military personnel in uniform.

2

The ship closes at 5 pm, so plan to leave before then.

3

Some areas of the ship are not fully accessible due to its design.

13
Original Selfie Museum | Seattle image 1

Bright, colorful backdrops and interactive props create a lively, fun atmosphere for taking photos. The space is small but vibrant, with multiple themed areas including an upstairs mirrored room and creative booths. The vibe suits those looking to capture eye-catching images in a playful setting.

Vibrant photo sections and a variety of props keep kids engaged as they take pictures and videos. Kids under 4 enter free, and children up to their teens enjoy goofing around and making memories with friends.

Offers a visually appealing and interactive experience with carefully curated exhibits. Provides a variety of unique backgrounds and props for creative photo opportunities in a compact, vibrant space.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with cute props and backdrops for taking pictures."

"This museum has amazing backdrops and props for photos."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the props for taking pictures are really fun."

Good to know

1

Admission is $30 per person, which some find expensive for the experience.

2

Reservations for groups are recommended and can be made directly on the website.

3

The museum is not ADA accessible, which may limit access for some visitors.

14
Seattle Art Museum image 1

Building features bold architecture and well-lit galleries blending modern and classical art. Atmosphere feels peaceful with occasional loud exhibits and interactive activities. Unique rooms like the Porcelain room and Italian room create distinct immersive experiences.

Affordable tickets with large discounts for children make visits accessible. The museum offers timed entry and smooth parking, including for disabled kids. Kids respond well to the Lion Dance and drumming, though more interactive exhibits would help.

Porcelain room covers walls with china displays unique to this museum. Exhibits include rare and unique art like the Boafo and Ai Weiwei shows. Entry is free on the first Thursday of every month.

People are saying

"The galleries here offer a gorgeous mix of local and international art."

"The museums here have gorgeous exhibits, from paintings to sculptures."

"It's really Kid Friendly with a great mix of art styles."

Good to know

1

Free admission is available on the first Thursday of every month.

2

Parking costs $10 on weekends with validation.

3

Seniors can pay $5 on the first Friday of the month.

15
Ye Olde Curiosity Shop image 1

Shop resembles a cabinet of wonders with taxidermy, mummies, and entomology specimens displayed alongside pop culture figures. Atmosphere feels quirky and eclectic, mixing genuine artifacts with kitschy souvenirs. Overwhelming incense scent marks the entrance, creating a distinct sensory experience.

Kids find oddities like real mummies and shrunken heads fascinating. A Lego figure station offers unique mini figures that keep them entertained while adults browse.

A mix of unique artifacts and curious exhibits fills the space, blending a museum vibe with a souvenir shop feel. The collection offers a random and fun exploration of interesting items.

People are saying

"I found so many interesting and unusual things to look at here."

"It's surprisingly Kid Friendly with mummies and shrunken heads."

"It's a fun little museum with lots of weird and interesting things."

Good to know

1

Bring cash or coins for souvenirs and games.

2

Expect prices to be higher than average for unique items.

3

The shop features a mix of pop culture figures and oddities.

16
Seattle Pinball Museum image 1

Two-story space filled with chronologically arranged pinball machines from the 1960s to present day creates a nostalgic and fun atmosphere. The environment ranges from quiet upstairs midweek to loud and crowded downstairs, with machines placed close together. Repurposed machine parts decorate the walls, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Kids spend hours playing on pinball machines with staff who explain rules clearly. Used pinballs often become souvenirs, creating memorable moments for children.

Unlimited play on pinball machines from 1960 to 2024 creates a hands-on museum experience. Informational placards explain each machine's significance while visitors enjoy free-play with unlimited time.

People are saying

"It's got a huge collection of pinball machines from the 60s to now."

"This museum has a huge collection of pinball machines from vintage to modern."

"It's so kid friendly, my son was here for hours!"

Good to know

1

Admission for adults is $23, which includes unlimited play on all machines.

2

The museum closes at 6pm on Saturdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Getting there is easy with the light rail, making it accessible for visitors.

17
Seattle Children's Museum image 1
Children's museum

Museum offers interactive real-world play spaces like a vet clinic, theatre, and construction site designed for young children. Atmosphere is busy and lively, with older kids running around and school groups visiting, creating some chaos. Spacious, warm environment includes physics learning areas and a large food court upstairs accessible outside the museum.

Simulated real-world spaces like a grocery store, vet clinic, and post office offer kids hands-on play. The museum suits toddlers and young kids with plenty to explore and discover.

Interactive exhibits mimic real-life scenes like a vet's office and a theatre backdrop, offering many hands-on activities for kids. The space feels calm with lower crowds and suits children aged 3 to 5 years old well.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with tons of engaging activities."

"This children's museum is a creative playground best for ages 3 to 5."

"The kids loved playing in the simulated Grocery Store area."

Good to know

1

The museum is best suited for children aged 1 to 7 years old.

2

Expect the museum to be crowded on rainy days or during field trips.

3

Parking costs $20-30 for 2-3 hours in the area.

18
Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience - Bellevue image 1

Multiple rooms feature ball pits, balloons, and bubbles creating a playful, colorful environment. Spaces include optical illusions and interactive elements that engage both children and adults. The atmosphere varies from lively and fun to occasionally unsettling due to loud, eerie music and maintenance issues.

Toddlers and young kids enjoy exploring freely in a space designed for their age. Weekday visits offer a more relaxed experience without crowds, making it easier for kids to have fun and feel comfortable.

Exhibits offer a mesmerizing and immersive experience suitable for all ages. Visitors can explore each room at their own pace and revisit exhibits multiple times.

People are saying

"You'll have so much fun in the colorful balloon and ball pit rooms."

"It's an incredible, fun experience that kids and families will love."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with everything."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $7 for a duration most families wouldnโ€™t spend more than two hours.

2

You need to wear socks when visiting Bubble Planet.

3

Parents must accompany their children at Bubble Planet.

19
Bug & Reptile Museum image 1

Small museum packed with a wide variety of live reptiles and bugs in colorful displays. Atmosphere is family-friendly and educational, with activities like a scavenger hunt and a tiny gift shop offering unique bug-related items. Space feels cramped and busy, making it suitable for short visits especially with children.

Built-in activities and a scavenger hunt with a free prize keep kids engaged. The compact, free setup features bugs and reptiles that little kids find fascinating.

Small museum features live reptiles and bugs with well-cared-for specimens. Entry is free, and it aims to spark interest in reptiles and insects among young visitors.

People are saying

"This little museum is free and packed with interesting bugs and reptiles."

"It's a fun discovery and a great way to brighten your day."

"It's really Kid Friendly, my son had a blast with all the bugs."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free.

2

There is a donation box near the cash register for contributions.

3

The museum offers a scavenger hunt designed for children.

20
Boeing Future of Flightโ€‹ image 1

Large building offers breathtaking views of active runways and aircraft assembly lines from multiple observation decks. Interactive exhibits and a kids play area provide family-friendly learning opportunities. Atmosphere feels cozy yet strict, with some unused spaces giving a slightly neglected impression.

Children explore interactive kids zones that teach space and physics concepts. The deck offers a spot to watch planes land, adding to the hands-on learning experience for older kids and aviation fans.

Tours include a production factory visit and exhibits on aviation history. The museum features aircraft displays and insights into aerospace development.

People are saying

"It's interesting to see how they build huge airplanes."

"The historical sites here are fascinating and informative."

"You can see the assembly line and learn about Boeing's history at this museum."

Good to know

1

Advance booking is required for factory tour tickets.

2

Factory tours are currently suspended as of late July 2023.

3

Visitors must be at least 4 feet tall to participate in factory tours.

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